The Health Benefits of Peppermint Oil

Essential oils are an excellent way to concentrate the benefits of therapeutic herbs and essential oils for nearly all herbs are available. One of the most beneficial is peppermint oil, which is extracted by steam distillation from the peppermint, or mentha piperita, plant. The primary component of peppermint oil is menthol which provides the familiar flavor and cooling sensation, but peppermint oil also contains various minerals, vitamin A, vitamin C, and fatty acids.

Peppermint oil can be used to address a wide range of health ailments, both internally and externally. It’s an ingredient in many lotions and ointments. Topical application can relieve aches and pains, benefit the skin, and a few drops on the wrist is even a common recommendation to relieve a headache. Peppermint oil is commonly used in aromatherapy, many people will inhale the vapors to sooth their respiratory tract and lungs. Peppermint oil also has internal use to combat indigestion and harmful organisms.

Peppermint Oil and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

It’s no secret that peppermint oil can relax the smooth muscles of the respiratory tract, but did you know it can do the same to the smooth muscles in your GI tract? ^[1] There are many OTC remedies for symptoms of IBS and many of them contain peppermint oil, with good reason. The Department of Complementary Medicine at the University of Exeter in the UK examined over a dozen studies that collectively indicated peppermint oil was effective at relieving IBS symptoms. ^[2] Much evidence suggests that, when compared to available drugs for IBS, peppermint oil may be the best choice to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life for IBS patients. ^[3]

Peppermint Oil and Harmful Organisms

Many essential oils are known to be resistant to most harmful organisms. Peppermint oil is no exception and its menthol content has even been found to be effective against mosquitos and head lice. ^[4] [5]

Peppermint Oil and Bacteria

Peppermint oil is toxic to bacteria by way of chemicals which have antioxidant potential. ^[6] When evaluated for resistance to bacteria, peppermint oil and its components: camphor, menthol, and carvacrol have been found to be effective; notably, carvacrol has the highest activity. ^[7] [8] Other studies have evaluated and confirmed the antioxidant and potential of peppermint oil and a Syrian study even found peppermint oil to be effective against a strain of microbes known to target livestock. ^[9] [10]

Peppermint Oil and Fungus

The general resistance of essential oils to fungus is well documented and peppermint oil is no exception. Indian and Iranian researchers have shown that peppermint oil holds potential for managing fungal infections, including candida. ^[11] [12] Their assertion was backed up by the Institute for Biological Research in Serbia where researchers observed fungicide behavior from peppermint oil. ^[13] The Tehran University of Medical Sciences in Iran also, after comprehensive review, concluded that menthol is resistant to fungus, including candida. ^[14] Similarily, Brazil’s State University of Campinas found essential oils of three different peppermint varieties to be anti-candida. ^[15]

One of the most positive discoveries about peppermint oil was found by the US Air Force 375th Medical Group Family Medicine Residency Program who conducted a study of 18 participants suffering from fungal nail infection. During the 48 week study, the participants applied a vapor rub that contained menthol to their nails. All 18 reported positive changes to their nail appearance by the end of the study. ^[16]

References (16)

1. Grigoleit HG, Grigoleit P. Gastrointestinal clinical pharmacology of peppermint oil. Phytomedicine. 2005 Aug;12(8):607-11. Review.


2. Pittler MH, Ernst E. Peppermint oil for irritable bowel syndrome: a critical review and metaanalysis. Am J Gastroenterol. 1998 Jul;93(7):1131-5.


3. Grigoleit HG, Grigoleit P. Peppermint oil in irritable bowel syndrome. Phytomedicine. 2005 Aug;12(8):601-6. Review.


4. Talbert R, Wall R. Toxicity of essential and non-essential oils against the chewing louse, Bovicola (Werneckiella) ocellatus. Res Vet Sci. 2012 Oct;93(2):831-5. doi: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2011.11.006. Epub 2011 Dec 15.


5. Samarasekera R, Weerasinghe IS, Hemalal KP. Insecticidal activity of menthol derivatives against mosquitoes. Pest Manag Sci. 2008 Mar;64(3):290-5.


6. Sharafi SM, Rasooli I, Owlia P, Taghizadeh M, Astaneh SD. Protective effects of bioactive phytochemicals from Mentha piperita with multiple health potentials. Pharmacogn Mag. 2010 Jul;6(23):147-53. doi: 10.4103/0973-1296.66926.


7. Soković M, Glamočlija J, Marin PD, Brkić D, van Griensven LJ. Antibacterial effects of the essential oils of commonly consumed medicinal herbs using an in vitro model. Molecules. 2010 Oct 27;15(11):7532-46. doi: 10.3390/molecules15117532.


8. Hussain AI, Anwar F, Nigam PS, Ashraf M, Gilani AH. Seasonal variation in content, chemical composition and antimicrobial and cytotoxic activities of essential oils from four Mentha species. J Sci Food Agric. 2010 Aug 30;90(11):1827-36. doi: 10.1002/jsfa.4021.


9. Mimica-Dukić N, Bozin B, Soković M, Mihajlović B, Matavulj M. Antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of three Mentha species essential oils. Planta Med. 2003 May;69(5):413-9.


10. Al-Mariri A, Saour G, Hamou R. In vitro antibacterial effects of five volatile oil extracts against intramacrophage Brucella abortus 544. Iran J Med Sci. 2012 Jun;37(2):119-25.


11. Saharkhiz MJ, Motamedi M, Zomorodian K, Pakshir K, Miri R, Hemyari K. Chemical Composition, Antifungal and Antibiofilm Activities of the Essential Oil of Mentha piperita L. ISRN Pharm. 2012;2012:718645. doi: 10.5402/2012/718645. Epub 2012 Dec 13.


12. Pattnaik S, Subramanyam VR, Bapaji M, Kole CR. Antibacterial and antifungal activity of aromatic constituents of essential oils. Microbios. 1997;89(358):39-46.


13. Soković MD, Vukojević J, Marin PD, Brkić DD, Vajs V, van Griensven LJ. Chemical composition of essential oils of Thymus and Mentha species and their antifungal activities. Molecules. 2009 Jan 7;14(1):238-49. doi: 10.3390/molecules14010238.


14. Azimi H, Fallah-Tafti M, Karimi-Darmiyan M, Abdollahi M. A comprehensive review of vaginitis phytotherapy. Pak J Biol Sci. 2011 Nov 1;14(21):960-6. Review.


15. Duarte MC, Figueira GM, Sartoratto A, Rehder VL, Delarmelina C. Anti-Candida activity of Brazilian medicinal plants. J Ethnopharmacol. 2005 Feb 28;97(2):305-11. Epub 2005 Jan 5.


16. Derby R, Rohal P, Jackson C, Beutler A, Olsen C. Novel treatment of onychomycosis using over-the-counter mentholated ointment: a clinical case series. J Am Board Fam Med. 2011 Jan-Feb;24(1):69-74. doi: 10.3122/jabfm.2011.01.100124.

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The Health Benefits of Peppermint Leaf

Peppermint (Mentha piperita) is a hardy perennial herb that is a hybrid of watermint and spearmint. It’s native to Europe, but can be found all across the world. With a long history of therapeutic use for a variety of ailments that extends back to ancient Egypt, peppermint is referred to as “the world’s oldest medicine.”

Nutritionally, peppermint offers vitamins A and C, iron, potassium, fiber, and it’s low-calorie. Its refreshing flavor and cooling sensation lead to its inclusion in many products including mouthwash, toothpaste, soap, and ointment. Regardless if you obtain it from your local farmer’s market or grow it in your own herb garden at home, peppermint leaf offers many amazing health benefits.

Peppermint Leaf Fights Harmful Organisms

Peppermint or extracts of compounds from peppermint leaf, including menthol, can help defend against many types of harmful organisms.^[1] It’s been evaluated against head lice,^[2] fungus,^[3] and even worms that reside in goat intestines^[4]—all with positive results.

Peppermint Supports Digestive Health

Appreciation for peppermint’s qualities as a digestive aid extends back hundreds of years. Recent studies confirm peppermint tea is helpful for relieving indigestion.^[5] Peppermint may also ease various symptoms of IBS, including abdominal discomfort, gas, and diarrhea.^[6]

Peppermint Promotes Respiratory Health

You can breathe easy knowing that peppermint supports lung health and respiratory function.^[7] Peppermint may even boost lung function during exercise. In a study of 12 healthy males, consumption of peppermint-infused mineral water lead to a measurable increase in respiratory rate and running performance—likely due to increased oxygen concentration and decreased blood lactate levels.^[8]

Peppermint Leaf and Oral Health

Peppermint is frequently added to toothpaste, mouthwash, and floss. Although its minty flavor keeps your mouth smelling fresh and feeling clean, it has an even greater effect. Studies show that peppermint encourages a healthy oral environment by fighting plaque and supporting gum health.^[9] Others studies suggest peppermint keeps the mouth clean by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and oral pathogens.^[10]

Peppermint Leaf, Headaches, and Stress

Peppermint is a fantastic natural remedy for tension-type headaches—the most frequent type of a headache. In fact, by some accounts, peppermint oil can relieve a headache as well as aspirin and acetaminophen.^[11]Peppermint has a soothing action and is recommended by aromatherapy practitioners for relieving feelings of stress and anxiety.

Peppermint and the Liver

Peppermint may support liver function by promoting the flow of bile.^[12] Bile helps digest fats and encourages normal cholesterol levels; normal cholesterol levels reduce the workload placed on the liver. Additionally, animal studies show that compounds in peppermint leaf may protect the liver against certain toxins.^[13] While more research is required to explore this relationship, early investigations about peppermint’s ability to support liver health are positive.

Other Benefits of Peppermint Leaf

• Peppermint tea, one of the most consumed herbal teas in the world, contains antioxidants.^[14]


• Traditional folk medicine recommends peppermint for relieving discomfort, a claim that has been investigated and substantiated.^[15]


• Peppermint has a relaxing effect on smooth muscle tissue. There are many situations where relaxing smooth muscle tissue is beneficial, whether it be relieving a sore throat, or calming colonic spasms during barium enemas.^[16]


• Some studies suggest that certain compounds in peppermint, in certain situations, may promote normal cell growth and development.^[17]

How to Grow Your Own Peppermint

Peppermint is a fantastic and valuable addition to an organic herb garden. It repels insects and requires minimal care. Once established, peppermint grows rapidly; some gardeners might say it grows a little too easily.

True peppermint is not grown from seeds. As a hybrid plant, most peppermint plants are sterile. Unscrupulous sellers still offer something called “peppermint seeds” but I wouldn’t recommend purchasing. They either won’t germinate or aren’t true peppermint. If they do germinate, what grows may be a mint, but not peppermint. The taste, smell, and therapeutic properties will be different-and probably not as pleasant.

True peppermint is grown only via cuttings. You should be able to find some at your local garden shop, or from a green-thumbed friend who already possesses a peppermint plant. Perform a taste test on a leaf first. The plant you grow will effectively be a clone of the original and should taste exactly the same.

Plant in early spring. The cuttings prefer a temperature of at least 65°F (~18°C). If the temperature outside regularly falls below that, you can start the cuttings inside your home, but once the cuttings reach 10 cm in height, it’s time to move them outdoors. Peppermint prefers moist, but well-drained, soil and full or partial sunlight.

The plants will grow about 1-2 feet in height and completely cover the ground. Like most mint species, peppermint is invasive and, if you aren’t careful, it will take over your whole garden. For this reason, many gardeners prefer to grow peppermint in a container or in an enclosed area on the ground to prevent the roots from spreading.

Peppermint leaves can be harvested as soon as they begin growing. The new leaves will have the best flavor. When harvesting, leave at least 1/3 of the plant intact. The essential oils of mint are most potent when harvested in the morning after the dew has dried.

Dry peppermint leaves quickly after harvesting, as they tend to mold quickly. Peppermint may be air dried by tying the stems into bunches. Hang the stems upside in a paper bag, in a cool, dry place. After two weeks, the herbs will be dry and ready to store. If stored in an airtight container, the herb should remain fresh for up to three years.

Using Peppermint Leaf

Peppermint leaf is used in many ways. Add the leaves to salads or make peppermint tea. Even adding peppermint leaves to purified water, is cooling and refreshing. Chewing peppermint leaves is an easy way to naturally freshen breath.

Peppermint as a Supplement

If you want the benefits of peppermint leaf without the hassle of growing or preparing it yourself, peppermint oils and peppermint leaf extract are a great alternative. Global Healing Center offers an array of products that contain high quality, organic peppermint extract. Allertrex® supports respiratory health, and Livatrex®promotes optimal liver function, and both harnesses the power of peppermint and other organic herbs to support your health.

What’s your favorite use for peppermint? Leave a comment and let us know your thoughts!

References (17)

1. Keskin D, Toroglu S. “Studies on antimicrobial activities of solvent extracts of different spices.” J Environ Biol. 2011 Mar;32(2):251-6.


2. Veal L. “The potential effectiveness of essential oils as a treatment for headlice, Pediculus humanus capitis.” Complement Ther Nurs Midwifery. 1996 Aug;2(4):97-101.


3. Zaker M, Mosallanejad H. “Antifungal activity of some plant extracts on Alternaria alternata, the causal agent of alternaria leaf spot of potato.” Pak J Biol Sci. 2010 Nov 1;13(21):1023-9.


4. De Almeida MA, Domingues LF, Almeida GN, Simas MM, Botura MB, Da Cruz AC, Da Silva AV, Menezes TP, Batatinha MJ. “[Effects of aqueous extracts of Mentha piperita L. and Chenopodium ambrosioides L. leaves in infective larvae cultures of gastrointestinal nematodes of goats].” Rev Bras Parasitol Vet. 2007 Jan-Mar;16(1):57-9. Portuguese.


5. “Herbal remedies for dyspepsia: peppermint seems effective.” Prescrire Int.2008;17(95):121-3.


6. Cappello G, Spezzaferro M, Grossi L, Manzoli L, Marzio L. “Peppermint oil (Mintoil) in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome: a prospective double blind placebo-controlled randomized trial.” Dig Liver Dis. 2007;39(6):530-6.


7. Shkurupiĭ VA, Kazarinova NV, Ogirenko AP, Nikonov SD, Tkachev AV, Tkachenko KG. “[Efficiency of the use of peppermint (Mentha piperita L) essential oil inhalations in the combined multi-drug therapy for pulmonary tuberculosis].” 8 Probl Tuberk. 2002;(4):36-9.


8. Meamarbashi A, Rajabi A. “The effects of peppermint on exercise performance.” Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition 2013;10:15. doi:10.1186/1550-2783-10-15.


9. Aspalli S, Shetty VS, Devarathnamma MV, Nagappa G, Archana D, Parab P. “Evaluation of antiplaque and antigingivitis effect of herbal mouthwash in treatment of plaque induced gingivitis: A randomized clinical trial.” J Indian 11 Soc Periodontol. 2014;18(1):48-52.


10. Thosar N, Basak S, Bahadure RN, Rajurkar M. “Antimicrobial efficacy of five essential oils against oral pathogens: An in vitro study.” Eur J Dent. 2013;7(Suppl 1):S71-7.


11. Göbel H, Heinze A, Heinze-kuhn K, Göbel A, Göbel C. “[Peppermint oil in the acute treatment of tension-type headache].” Schmerz. 2016;30(3):295-310.


12. Zong L, Qu Y, Luo DX, et al. “Preliminary experimental research on the mechanism of liver bile secretion stimulated by peppermint oil.” J Dig Dis. 2011;12(4):295-301.


13. Sharma A, Sharma MK, Kumar M. “Protective effect of Mentha piperita against arsenic-induced toxicity in liver of Swiss albino mice. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol.” 2007 Apr;100(4):249-57.


14. Fecka I, Turek S. “Determination of water-soluble polyphenolic compounds in commercial herbal teas from Lamiaceae: peppermint, melissa, and sage.” J Agric Food Chem. 2007 Dec 26;55(26):10908-17. Epub 2007 Dec 4.


15. Taher YA. “Antinociceptive activity of Mentha piperita leaf aqueous extract in mice.” Libyan J Med. 2012;7. doi: 10.3402/ljm.v7i0.16205. Epub 2012 Mar 27.


16. Kligler B, Chaudhary S. “Peppermint oil.” Am Fam Physician. 2007 Apr 1;75(7):1027-30. Review.


17. Jain D, Pathak N, Khan S, Raghuram GV, Bhargava A, Samarth R, Mishra PK. “ Evaluation of cytotoxicity and anticarcinogenic potential of Mentha leaf extracts.” Int J Toxicol. 2011 Mar;30(2):225-36. doi: 10.1177/1091581810390527. Epub 2011 Feb 7.

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